Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked nine months of residing in London. Though it may not be a long duration, I have acquired some valuable perspectives. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only due to its varied housing options but also because of its vibrant communities. Students have countless choices available to them. Student accommodations and private housing feature options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential lodgings online, encompassing amenities and proximity to public transport.
As I searched for a place to call home, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain close to significant landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London has an outstanding transportation system, comprising the tube, buses, and trains, which simplifies movement and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal travel can amount to £5.25 daily. Therefore, I chose to walk shorter distances instead of utilizing a bus or tube. Nevertheless, options like the oyster card have rendered university commutes more economical. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, extending to zones situated outside central London. Fares for travel between zones on these services differ according to distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London is home to significant attractions, contributing to high living expenses. Fortunately, I attended university alongside a friend, and we chose to share a room, which greatly alleviated rental costs. I had a preference for intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with students from diverse backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination that is often harder to find in private rentals.
Living in proximity to grocery outlets was imperative for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in poses its challenges. London’s ethnic communities form a fundamental part of its cultural identity, presenting a rich assortment of varied neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek a sense of familiarity with their homeland. Southall, located in West London, features a substantial South Asian community complete with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These exemplify just a few of the community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal living areas in London hinge on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, embrace the city’s diversity and wealth in accommodation choices, explore cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.